John Simonette, left, Jase Simonette, 2, Madison Simonette, 5 and Ashley Simonette sit together on their couch at home. Big sister Madison and Jace have both worked with speech therapist Mona Entwhistle from Horizons early intervention program.

John said he and Ashley are hoping the program does a lot for Jase, who really likes noises but not necessarily words.

The Simonettes said Enthwistle helps them know how to work with Jase when she’s not there, as well, giving progress reports and things to work on during the week while she’s away.

For those worried about their child’s development but hesitant to reach out for help, John and Ashley have a bit of advice.

“Hesitating is only going to hold your kid back more,” Ashley said. “The only person you’re hurting is your kid.”

John said not accepting the help would be a poor decision.

“It’s a positive direction and educational,” John said. “If someone is willing to come and help your child and expand their vocabulary before they hit school, or even their understanding before they hit school that helps out dramatically. In the long run, it’s so much more beneficial. You know your child will eventually do well because they had this jump start.”

The early intervention program aims to help children before they reach school age, because the sooner the better to begin working on developmental issues.

Horizons offers their intervention and family support programs at no cost to any family who needs them.

That’s why this time of year, Horizons is having its annual Little Points of Light Fundraiser, to help continue provide valuable services like the ones for Madison and Jase at no cost to those who need them the most.

The Moffat County Horizons office is located at 439 Breeze St., Suite No. 100 in Craig. Contributions may be mailed to P.O. Box 1483, or for more information call, 970-824-2643.

“They’re extremely cooperative and extremely helpful,” Ashley said.

“Working with Horizons has been very beneficial and easy,” John said. “Every little thing helps.”

Darian Warden can be reached at 875-1793 or dwarden@craigdailypress.com

Quotable

“Hesitating is only going to hold your kid back more. The only person you’re hurting is your kid.”

Ashley Simonette about accepting help for children with developmental issues